Santa Hermandad

Santa Hermandad was a medieval Spanish law enforcement organization established in the 13th century. It functioned as a communal police force composed of local citizens, tasked with maintaining public order, fighting crime, and patrolling rural areas. Sponsored by the crown and local communities, it aimed to protect towns and countryside from bandits and unrest. The Hermandad operated through patrols, investigations, and cooperation with authorities, fostering security and social stability. While its influence waned over time, it played a significant role in early Spanish efforts to establish law and order across the kingdom.